THIS is the reason you signed your child up for piano lessons! Now is their opportunity to share their gift of music with others to bring them joy. Here are a few ideas for how you can share music during the holidays.
1. Play for a school event.
2. Play for a church event.
Prelude music before a worship service. Offertory or piano solo during the service. Postlude music as people are exiting the church. Play for youth Sunday School class or Bible study. Train them to become future musicians for worship service at church.
One student had the blessing of playing “Amazing Grace” at her grandfather’s funeral.
3. Teacher Recital
Even though this is a busy time of year, teachers recognize the value of providing music through their students. It gives students valuable performance experience and it provides holiday cheer for anyone who hears them play.
Teachers try to be sensitive about cultural differences this time of year. Most are willing to have students play any music, not just holiday tunes.
My studio does Piano Caroling at our local retirement center. Some teachers host casual come-and-go parties in their home where students provide background music. This is a much more comfortable atmosphere for anxious performers.
Take advantage of this stepping stone performance opportunity.
4. Host your own Retirement Center Concert
Maybe your teacher doesn’t arrange a recital at the local retirement center. That doesn’t mean you can’t. If you go visit family in the retirement home, bring your music and plan to play the piano while you’re there.
What a gift to share with our senior generation who doesn’t have the independence to drive to a concert like they once had. Bring the concert to them.
5. Family Sing-a-Long
I think one of the reasons many parents sign their children up to piano lessons is to, one day, gather around the piano to sing holiday tunes together. That can start happening right now, no matter your piano kid’s skill level.
Let them use music that is very easy for them. Give them time to get comfortable playing on their own. Slowly add voices to sing along. Don’t rush your piano kid or call attention to mistakes. Be patient and encourage their effort and hard work. This will encourage them to do it again the next time.
6. Stage your own private concert.
7. Virtual Concert
8. Make a Musical Gift
9. Book a Gig
10. Conduct a Family Music Interview
No matter how you spend the holidays, I hope you will find ways to share your music with others. It will be a good learning experience for you and it will bring enjoyment to anyone privileged to hear you play.
Thanks for listening!
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